This modern home, near Cedar Lake, built in 1900, was originally a corner store. A massive conversion transformed the home into a spacious, multi-level residence in the 1990’s. However, the home’s lot was unusually steep and overgrown with vegetation. In addition, there were concerns about soil erosion and water intrusion to the house. The homeowners wanted to resolve these issues and create a much more useable outdoor area for family and pets. Castle, in conjunction with Field Outdoor Spaces, designed and built a large deck area in the back yard of the home, which includes a detached screen porch and a bar & grill area under a cedar pergola. The previous, small deck was demolished and the sliding door replaced with a window. A new glass sliding door was inserted along a perpendicular wall to connect the home’s interior kitchen to the backyard oasis. The screen house doors are made from six custom screen panels, attached to a top mount, soft-close track. Inside the screen porch, a patio heater allows the family to enjoy this space much of the year. Concrete was the material chosen for the outdoor countertops, to ensure it lasts several years in Minnesota’s always-changing climate. Trex decking was used throughout, along with red cedar porch, pergola and privacy lattice detailing. The front entry of the home was also updated to include a large, open porch with access to the newly landscaped yard. Cable railings from Loftus Iron add to the contemporary style of the home, including a gate feature at the top of the front steps to contain the family pets when they’re let out into the yard. Tour this project in person, September 28 – 29, during the 2019 Castle Home Tour!

WINNER: Silver Award – One-of-a-Kind Custom or Spec 4,001 – 5,000 sq ft, Best in American Living Awards, 2019 Affectionately called The Magnolia, a reference to the architect's Southern upbringing, this project was a grass roots exploration of farmhouse architecture. Located in Phoenix, Arizona’s idyllic Arcadia neighborhood, the home gives a nod to the area’s citrus orchard history. Echoing the past while embracing current millennial design expectations, this just-complete speculative family home hosts four bedrooms, an office, open living with a separate “dirty kitchen”, and the Stone Bar. Positioned in the Northwestern portion of the site, the Stone Bar provides entertainment for the interior and exterior spaces. With retracting sliding glass doors and windows above the bar, the space opens up to provide a multipurpose playspace for kids and adults alike. Nearly as eyecatching as the Camelback Mountain view is the stunning use of exposed beams, stone, and mill scale steel in this grass roots exploration of farmhouse architecture. White painted siding, white interior walls, and warm wood floors communicate a harmonious embrace in this soothing, family-friendly abode. Project Details // The Magnolia House Architecture: Drewett Works Developer: Marc Development Builder: Rafterhouse Interior Design: Rafterhouse Landscape Design: Refined Gardens Photographer: ProVisuals Media Awards Silver Award – One-of-a-Kind Custom or Spec 4,001 – 5,000 sq ft, Best in American Living Awards, 2019 Featured In “The Genteel Charm of Modern Farmhouse Architecture Inspired by Architect C.P. Drewett,” by Elise Glickman for Iconic Life, Nov 13, 2019

Who lives there: Asha Mevlana and her Havanese dog named Bali Location: Fayetteville, Arkansas Size: Main house (400 sq ft), Trailer (160 sq ft.), 1 loft bedroom, 1 bath What sets your home apart: The home was designed specifically for my lifestyle. My inspiration: After reading the book, "The Life Changing Magic of Tidying," I got inspired to just live with things that bring me joy which meant scaling down on everything and getting rid of most of my possessions and all of the things that I had accumulated over the years. I also travel quite a bit and wanted to live with just what I needed. About the house: The L-shaped house consists of two separate structures joined by a deck. The main house (400 sq ft), which rests on a solid foundation, features the kitchen, living room, bathroom and loft bedroom. To make the small area feel more spacious, it was designed with high ceilings, windows and two custom garage doors to let in more light. The L-shape of the deck mirrors the house and allows for the two separate structures to blend seamlessly together. The smaller "amplified" structure (160 sq ft) is built on wheels to allow for touring and transportation. This studio is soundproof using recycled denim, and acts as a recording studio/guest bedroom/practice area. But it doesn't just look like an amp, it actually is one -- just plug in your instrument and sound comes through the front marine speakers onto the expansive deck designed for concerts. My favorite part of the home is the large kitchen and the expansive deck that makes the home feel even bigger. The deck also acts as a way to bring the community together where local musicians perform. I love having a the amp trailer as a separate space to practice music. But I especially love all the light with windows and garage doors throughout. Design team: Brian Crabb (designer), Zack Giffin (builder, custom furniture) Vickery Construction (builder) 3 Volve Construction (builder) Design dilemmas: Because the city wasn’t used to having tiny houses there were certain rules that didn’t quite make sense for a tiny house. I wasn’t allowed to have stairs leading up to the loft, only ladders were allowed. Since it was built, the city is beginning to revisit some of the old rules and hopefully things will be changing. Photo cred: Don Shreve

This project was such an incredible design opportunity, and instilled inspiration and excitement at every turn! Our amazing clients came to us with the challenge of converting their beloved family home into a welcoming haven for all members of the family. At the time that we met our clients, they were struggling with the difficult personal decision of the fate of the home. Their father/father-in-law had passed away and their mother/mother-in-law had recently been admitted into a nursing facility and was fighting Alzheimer’s. Resistant to loss of the home now that both parents were out of it, our clients purchased the home to keep in in the family. Despite their permanent home currently being in New Jersey, these clients dedicated themselves to keeping and revitalizing the house. We were moved by the story and became immediately passionate about bringing this dream to life. The home was built by the parents of our clients and was only ever owned by them, making this a truly special space to the family. Our goal was to revitalize the home and to bring new energy into every room without losing the special characteristics that were original to the home when it was built. In this way, we were able to develop a house that maintains its own unique personality while offering a space of welcoming neutrality for all members of the family to enjoy over time. The renovation touched every part of the home: the exterior, foyer, kitchen, living room, sun room, garage, six bedrooms, three bathrooms, the laundry room, and everything in between. The focus was to develop a style that carried consistently from space to space, but allowed for unique expression in the small details in every room. Starting at the entry, we renovated the front door and entry point to offer more presence and to bring more of the mid-century vibe to the home’s exterior. We integrated a new modern front door, cedar shingle accents, new exterior paint, and gorgeous contemporary house numbers that really allow the home to stand out. Just inside the entry, we renovated the foyer to create a playful entry point worthy of attention. Cement look tile adorns the foyer floor, and we’ve added new lighting and upgraded the entry coat storage. Upon entering the home, one will immediately be captivated by the stunning kitchen just off the entry. We transformed this space in just about every way. While the footprint of the home ultimately remained almost identical, the aesthetics were completely turned on their head. We re-worked the kitchen to maximize storage and to create an informal dining area that is great for casual hosting or morning coffee. We removed the entry to the garage that was once in the informal dining, and created a peninsula in its place that offers a unique division between the kitchen/informal dining and the formal dining and living areas. The simple light warm light gray cabinetry offers a bit of traditional elegance, along with the marble backsplash and quartz countertops. We extended the original wood flooring into the kitchen and stained all floors to match for a warmth that truly resonates through all spaces. We upgraded appliances, added lighting everywhere, and finished the space with some gorgeous mid century furniture pieces. In the formal dining and living room, we really focused on maintaining the original marble fireplace as a focal point. We cleaned the marble, repaired the mortar, and refinished the original fireplace screen to give a new sleek look in black. We then integrated a new gas insert for modern heating and painted the upper portion in a rich navy blue; an accent that is carried through the home consistently as a nod to our client’s love of the color. The former entry into the old covered porch is now an elegant glass door leading to a stunning finished sunroom. This room was completely upgraded as well. We wrapped the entire space in cozy white shiplap to keep a casual feel with brightness. We tiled the floor with large format concrete look tile, and painted the old brick fireplace a bright white. We installed a new gas burning unit, and integrated transitional style lighting to bring warmth and elegance into the space. The new black-frame windows are adorned with decorative shades that feature hand-sketched bird prints, and we’ve created a dedicated garden-ware “nook” for our client who loves to work in the yard. The far end of this space is completed with two oversized chaise loungers and overhead lights…the most perfect little reading nook! Just off the dining room, we created an entirely new space to the home: a mudroom. The clients lacked this space and desperately needed a landing spot upon entering the home from the garage. We uniquely planned existing space in the garage to utilize for this purpose, and were able to create a small but functional entry point without losing the ability to park cars in the garage. This new space features cement-look tile, gorgeous deep brown cabinetry, and plenty of storage for all the small items one might need to store while moving in and out of the home. The remainder of the upstairs level includes massive renovations to the guest hall bathroom and guest bedroom, upstairs master bed/bath suite, and a third bedroom that we converted into a home office for the client. Some of the largest transformations were made in the basement, where unfinished space and lack of light were converted into gloriously lit, cozy, finished spaces. Our first task was to convert the massive basement living room into the new master bedroom for our clients. We removed existing built-ins, created an entirely new walk-in closet, painted the old brick fireplace, installed a new gas unit, added carpet, introduced new lighting, replaced windows, and upgraded every part of the aesthetic appearance. One of the most incredible features of this space is the custom double sliding barn door made by a Denver artisan. This space is truly a retreat for our clients! We also completely transformed the laundry room, back storage room, basement master bathroom, and two bedrooms. This home’s massive scope and ever-evolving challenges were thrilling and exciting to work with, and the result is absolutely amazing. At the end of the day, this home offers a look and feel that the clients love. Above all, though, the clients feel the spirit of their family home and have a welcoming environment for all members of the family to enjoy for years to come.

Bruce Damonte
Large elegant girl dark wood floor kids' room photo in San Francisco with blue walls

Unique fused art glass lighting custom made to fit any space. Our Noga (dining room chandelier) and Tanzania (living room) pendants are available in a variety of colors and sizes. Every chandelier is custom made to fit your space, with any number of pendants. Visit our website: www.shakuff.com for more details.

This Transitional Farmhouse Kitchen was completely remodeled and the home is nestled on the border of Pasadena and South Pasadena. Our goal was to keep the original charm of our client’s home while updating the kitchen in a way that was fresh and current. Our design inspiration began with a deep green soapstone counter top paired with creamy white cabinetry. Carrera marble subway tile for the backsplash is a luxurious splurge and adds classic elegance to the space. The stainless steel appliances and sink create a more transitional feel, while the shaker style cabinetry doors and schoolhouse light fixture are in keeping with the original style of the home. Tile flooring resembling concrete is clean and simple and seeded glass in the upper cabinet doors help make the space feel open and light. This kitchen has a hidden microwave and custom range hood design, as well as a new pantry area, for added storage. The pantry area features an appliance garage and deep-set counter top for multi-purpose use. These features add value to this small space. The finishing touches are polished nickel cabinet hardware, which add a vintage look and the cafe curtains are the handiwork of the homeowner. We truly enjoyed the collaborative effort in this kitchen. Photography by Erika Beirman

Our clients already had a cottage on Torch Lake that they loved to visit. It was a 1960s ranch that worked just fine for their needs. However, the lower level walkout became entirely unusable due to water issues. After purchasing the lot next door, they hired us to design a new cottage. Our first task was to situate the home in the center of the two parcels to maximize the view of the lake while also accommodating a yard area. Our second task was to take particular care to divert any future water issues. We took necessary precautions with design specifications to water proof properly, establish foundation and landscape drain tiles / stones, set the proper elevation of the home per ground water height and direct the water flow around the home from natural grade / drive. Our final task was to make appealing, comfortable, living spaces with future planning at the forefront. An example of this planning is placing a master suite on both the main level and the upper level. The ultimate goal of this home is for it to one day be at least a 3/4 of the year home and designed to be a multi-generational heirloom. - Jacqueline Southby Photography

Many decades worth of iconic style come together in this funky home in Los Angeles. Represented are mid-century modern, 1970's funk, classic, modern transitional, and a splash of youthful 90's flair. Orange, fuchsia, and lime green are featured in this look. Products and styling courtesy of Wayfair.com Photo by Kayli Gennaro

Multi-sport Backyard Basketball and Roller Hockey Court with Tennis hitboard and Lighting in Hamilton
This is an example of a small traditional partial sun backyard concrete paver outdoor basketball/tennis/multi-game court in Boston.

Our clients already had a cottage on Torch Lake that they loved to visit. It was a 1960s ranch that worked just fine for their needs. However, the lower level walkout became entirely unusable due to water issues. After purchasing the lot next door, they hired us to design a new cottage. Our first task was to situate the home in the center of the two parcels to maximize the view of the lake while also accommodating a yard area. Our second task was to take particular care to divert any future water issues. We took necessary precautions with design specifications to water proof properly, establish foundation and landscape drain tiles / stones, set the proper elevation of the home per ground water height and direct the water flow around the home from natural grade / drive. Our final task was to make appealing, comfortable, living spaces with future planning at the forefront. An example of this planning is placing a master suite on both the main level and the upper level. The ultimate goal of this home is for it to one day be at least a 3/4 of the year home and designed to be a multi-generational heirloom. - Jacqueline Southby Photography

Klopf Architecture, Arterra Landscape Architects and Henry Calvert of Calvert Ventures Designed and built a new warm, modern, Eichler-inspired, open, indoor-outdoor home on a deeper-than-usual San Mateo Highlands property where an original Eichler house had burned to the ground. The owners wanted multi-generational living and larger spaces than the original home offered, but all parties agreed that the house should respect the neighborhood and blend in stylistically with the other Eichlers. At first the Klopf team considered re-using what little was left of the original home and expanding on it. But after discussions with the owner and builder, all parties agreed that the last few remaining elements of the house were not practical to re-use, so Klopf Architecture designed a new home that pushes the Eichler approach in new directions. One disadvantage of Eichler production homes is that the house designs were not optimized for each specific lot. A new custom home offered the team a chance to start over. In this case, a longer house that opens up sideways to the south fit the lot better than the original square-ish house that used to open to the rear (west). Accordingly, the Klopf team designed an L-shaped “bar” house with a large glass wall with large sliding glass doors that faces sideways instead of to the rear like a typical Eichler. This glass wall opens to a pool and landscaped yard designed by Arterra Landscape Architects. Driving by the house, one might assume at first glance it is an Eichler because of the horizontality, the overhanging flat roof eaves, the dark gray vertical siding, and orange solid panel front door, but the house is designed for the 21st Century and is not meant to be a “Likeler.” You won't see any posts and beams in this home. Instead, the ceiling decking is a western red cedar that covers over all the beams. Like Eichlers, this cedar runs continuously from inside to out, enhancing the indoor / outdoor feeling of the house, but unlike Eichlers it conceals a cavity for lighting, wiring, and insulation. Ceilings are higher, rooms are larger and more open, the master bathroom is light-filled and more generous, with a separate tub and shower and a separate toilet compartment, and there is plenty of storage. The garage even easily fits two of today's vehicles with room to spare. A massive 49-foot by 12-foot wall of glass and the continuity of materials from inside to outside enhance the inside-outside living concept, so the owners and their guests can flow freely from house to pool deck to BBQ to pool and back. During construction in the rough framing stage, Klopf thought the front of the house appeared too tall even though the house had looked right in the design renderings (probably because the house is uphill from the street). So Klopf Architecture paid the framer to change the roofline from how we had designed it to be lower along the front, allowing the home to blend in better with the neighborhood. One project goal was for people driving up the street to pass the home without immediately noticing there is an "imposter" on this lot, and making that change was essential to achieve that goal. This 2,606 square foot, 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom Eichler-inspired new house is located in San Mateo in the heart of the Silicon Valley. Klopf Architecture Project Team: John Klopf, AIA, Klara Kevane Landscape Architect: Arterra Landscape Architects Contractor: Henry Calvert of Calvert Ventures Photography ©2016 Mariko Reed Location: San Mateo, CA Year completed: 2016

Arclinea Armour: The kitchen design industry changed again with the launch of Armour last year. With a natural core in kraft paper mixed with new-gen resins, it is produced using high pressure lamination to create a highly evolved technical material with design capabilities for both horizontal and vertical applications, from cabinet fronts to countertops. The result, is an extremely durable surface that is scratch, abrasion, and finger proof resistant, buttery smooth to the touch, with velvety matte finish. It's water repellent and hygienic properties make it a smart choice for kitchen surfaces and the appearance of a matte lacquer to achieve that high-end modern look, for less. Armour meets the budget restraints of a multi-unit project or the savvy designer or homeowner.

This was one of those special projects in which we were able to build not only a incredibly insulated and efficient home, but were also able to incorporate a bunch of custom woodworking, metal work, stone work and historical details into the project. We adhered to “Efficiency Vermont’s’ rigorous High Performance Home standards in the construction of this project. In addition, this was a Duplex and as a result required extra attention to special code requirements surrounding multi-family construction. We also tried to recreate the exterior details to match with the historical period of early Vermont.

For the past several years, Buffum Homes has proudly featured Parade Homes within our own developments, and each year they have been a tremendous success. The Spring 2026 Parade of Homes was no exception. This year, we showcased our Sydney floor plan, one of Buffum Homes’ most popular 1.5-story home designs. Time and time again, homeowners are drawn to this plan because of its thoughtful layout, functional design, and ability to be customized to fit a variety of lifestyles. From the moment visitors arrived, this home made a statement. Its striking modern exterior immediately stood out within the development and offered exceptional curb appeal. The design team selected beautiful masonry accents that perfectly complemented the home’s color palette, creating a sophisticated and welcoming first impression. Every exterior detail was intentionally chosen to enhance the architecture and showcase the home’s unique character. Upon entry to this home, guests are welcomed through impressive double front doors that lead into a warm and inviting foyer. Immediately beyond, the stunning two-story great room creates a grand first impression. An overlooking loft from the second floor enhances the open feel of the space while allowing an abundance of natural daylight to pour throughout the home. A beautiful masonry fireplace chase serves as the focal point of the room, adding warmth, texture, and character to the heart of the home. Just off the foyer is a private office featuring a thoughtfully designed custom built-in, creating the perfect space for working from home, studying, or staying organized. The attention to detail found throughout this space is a great example of the craftsmanship that Buffum Homes is known for. Tucked away off the main living area is the primary suite, a comfortable retreat designed with both beauty and functionality in mind. The bedroom features a stunning tray ceiling accented with white oak detailing, creating a warm and sophisticated atmosphere. The primary bathroom includes a custom tiled shower, private water closet, dual-sink vanity, and a spacious walk-in closet. Every element was carefully considered to maximize both comfort and everyday convenience. Buffum Homes has become known for incorporating unique trim details throughout our homes, and this Parade Home was certainly no exception. From feature walls and ceiling treatments to custom built-ins and carefully crafted millwork, thoughtful details can be found around every corner. The great room flows seamlessly into the dining area and spacious U-shaped kitchen, creating an ideal layout for entertaining and everyday living. This updated version of the Sydney floor plan features a massive walk-in pantry with abundant shelving and countertop space, providing exceptional storage and organization. Within the kitchen, a stunning custom hood vent serves as a beautiful statement piece while built-in nooks offer convenient storage for cooking oils, spices, and other kitchen essentials. Just beyond the kitchen, the mudroom provides a practical transition space from the garage into the home. Complete with custom built-in lockers, a convenient half bath, and a large laundry room, this area was designed to keep daily life organized and efficient. The home also features a spacious three-stall garage, offering plenty of room for vehicles, storage, and recreational equipment. Spanning roughly 1,500 square feet, the main floor was thoughtfully designed to maximize functionality while maintaining an open and inviting feel. Every space serves a purpose while still providing the custom details and architectural features that make this home stand out. Ascending to the second floor, homeowners are welcomed by a spacious open loft overlooking the great room below. This versatile area provides additional living space and can be customized to fit a variety of needs. Whether used as a play area for children or grandchildren, a reading nook, a homework station, or simply a secondary gathering space, the loft adds both functionality and character to the home while maintaining a connection to the main living areas below. Also located on the second floor are three additional bedrooms and a full bathroom, providing plenty of room for family members and guests. The thoughtful layout allows for privacy while still keeping everyone connected through the open loft space. With approximately 1,000 square feet on the upper level, the second floor complements the main level perfectly while adding flexibility for growing families and changing needs over time. The lower level offers just under 1,100 square feet of future finish potential, providing homeowners with the flexibility to expand their living space as their needs evolve. Thoughtfully designed and well laid out, the basement is ready to accommodate a variety of future uses while maintaining excellent flow and functionality. The available space is ideal for adding two future bedrooms, a spacious family room, and a future full bathroom, making it perfect for growing families, hosting guests, or creating additional recreational space. Even with these future living areas, there is still plenty of room remaining for storage, ensuring homeowners have ample space for seasonal items, hobbies, and household essentials. One of the greatest advantages of the Sydney floor plan is its ability to grow alongside its homeowners. While the home already offers approximately 2,500 square feet of beautifully finished above-grade living space, completing the lower level would bring the total finished living area to over 3,600 square feet. This creates a truly expansive home that provides exceptional flexibility, comfort, and long-term value. In its current configuration, this home offers 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and approximately 2,500 square feet above grade. With a future lower level finish, homeowners have the opportunity to expand to 6 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and over 3,600 square feet of finished living space. The flexibility built into this design is one of the many reasons the Sydney continues to be one of our most requested floor plans. This home was filled with thoughtful details and custom touches throughout. From the carefully selected finishes and trim work to the intentional layout decisions, every aspect of the home was designed to maximize space, natural light, and everyday functionality. The result is a home that not only looks beautiful but also lives exceptionally well for years to come. It was a pleasure featuring this home in the Parade of Homes and welcoming so many visitors through its doors. We always enjoy the opportunity to showcase our craftsmanship, creativity, and attention to detail while sharing the quality that Buffum Homes brings to every project throughout West Michigan. As you browse through the photos below, we hope you’ll find inspiration for your own future home and discover ideas that fit your lifestyle and vision. Whether it is a favorite finish, layout feature, built-in detail, or design element, this home is a great example of how personalized a Buffum Home can be. When you’re ready to begin your custom home journey, we’d love to help create a customized version of the Sydney floor plan tailored specifically to your family’s needs, style, and goals. We can’t wait to help bring your dream home to life.

We Redefined Quality, Again. We set the quality standard by introducing a groundbreaking finish so tough it allowed us to offer one of the first 50 year warranties. Others followed. So, we raised the bar again. Now Bellawood is backed by a Certified 100 Year Transferable Warranty that covers you and generations to come. Exceptionally beautiful, and strong. Maple is ideally suited for dining rooms, kids rooms and other areas where fine living meets the demands of everyday life. Maple can often be found in dance studios and basketball courts. If it can stand up to performances like these, just image how well it will perform in your home. Its warm color ranges from creamy pale white to a light reddish brown. Individual boards may have additional character such as mineral streaks and burls unique to maple. This product is proudly finished in the USA. Finished to Last. We apply our durable, industry-leading finish to each board using a groundbreaking multi-layered, micro-particle process for superior wear and scratch resistance. So, go ahead?bring on life and everything that comes with it. Your Bellawood floor will stay beautiful year after year.

For the past several years, Buffum Homes has proudly featured Parade Homes within our own developments, and each year they have been a tremendous success. The Spring 2026 Parade of Homes was no exception. This year, we showcased our Sydney floor plan, one of Buffum Homes’ most popular 1.5-story home designs. Time and time again, homeowners are drawn to this plan because of its thoughtful layout, functional design, and ability to be customized to fit a variety of lifestyles. From the moment visitors arrived, this home made a statement. Its striking modern exterior immediately stood out within the development and offered exceptional curb appeal. The design team selected beautiful masonry accents that perfectly complemented the home’s color palette, creating a sophisticated and welcoming first impression. Every exterior detail was intentionally chosen to enhance the architecture and showcase the home’s unique character. Upon entry to this home, guests are welcomed through impressive double front doors that lead into a warm and inviting foyer. Immediately beyond, the stunning two-story great room creates a grand first impression. An overlooking loft from the second floor enhances the open feel of the space while allowing an abundance of natural daylight to pour throughout the home. A beautiful masonry fireplace chase serves as the focal point of the room, adding warmth, texture, and character to the heart of the home. Just off the foyer is a private office featuring a thoughtfully designed custom built-in, creating the perfect space for working from home, studying, or staying organized. The attention to detail found throughout this space is a great example of the craftsmanship that Buffum Homes is known for. Tucked away off the main living area is the primary suite, a comfortable retreat designed with both beauty and functionality in mind. The bedroom features a stunning tray ceiling accented with white oak detailing, creating a warm and sophisticated atmosphere. The primary bathroom includes a custom tiled shower, private water closet, dual-sink vanity, and a spacious walk-in closet. Every element was carefully considered to maximize both comfort and everyday convenience. Buffum Homes has become known for incorporating unique trim details throughout our homes, and this Parade Home was certainly no exception. From feature walls and ceiling treatments to custom built-ins and carefully crafted millwork, thoughtful details can be found around every corner. The great room flows seamlessly into the dining area and spacious U-shaped kitchen, creating an ideal layout for entertaining and everyday living. This updated version of the Sydney floor plan features a massive walk-in pantry with abundant shelving and countertop space, providing exceptional storage and organization. Within the kitchen, a stunning custom hood vent serves as a beautiful statement piece while built-in nooks offer convenient storage for cooking oils, spices, and other kitchen essentials. Just beyond the kitchen, the mudroom provides a practical transition space from the garage into the home. Complete with custom built-in lockers, a convenient half bath, and a large laundry room, this area was designed to keep daily life organized and efficient. The home also features a spacious three-stall garage, offering plenty of room for vehicles, storage, and recreational equipment. Spanning roughly 1,500 square feet, the main floor was thoughtfully designed to maximize functionality while maintaining an open and inviting feel. Every space serves a purpose while still providing the custom details and architectural features that make this home stand out. Ascending to the second floor, homeowners are welcomed by a spacious open loft overlooking the great room below. This versatile area provides additional living space and can be customized to fit a variety of needs. Whether used as a play area for children or grandchildren, a reading nook, a homework station, or simply a secondary gathering space, the loft adds both functionality and character to the home while maintaining a connection to the main living areas below. Also located on the second floor are three additional bedrooms and a full bathroom, providing plenty of room for family members and guests. The thoughtful layout allows for privacy while still keeping everyone connected through the open loft space. With approximately 1,000 square feet on the upper level, the second floor complements the main level perfectly while adding flexibility for growing families and changing needs over time. The lower level offers just under 1,100 square feet of future finish potential, providing homeowners with the flexibility to expand their living space as their needs evolve. Thoughtfully designed and well laid out, the basement is ready to accommodate a variety of future uses while maintaining excellent flow and functionality. The available space is ideal for adding two future bedrooms, a spacious family room, and a future full bathroom, making it perfect for growing families, hosting guests, or creating additional recreational space. Even with these future living areas, there is still plenty of room remaining for storage, ensuring homeowners have ample space for seasonal items, hobbies, and household essentials. One of the greatest advantages of the Sydney floor plan is its ability to grow alongside its homeowners. While the home already offers approximately 2,500 square feet of beautifully finished above-grade living space, completing the lower level would bring the total finished living area to over 3,600 square feet. This creates a truly expansive home that provides exceptional flexibility, comfort, and long-term value. In its current configuration, this home offers 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and approximately 2,500 square feet above grade. With a future lower level finish, homeowners have the opportunity to expand to 6 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and over 3,600 square feet of finished living space. The flexibility built into this design is one of the many reasons the Sydney continues to be one of our most requested floor plans. This home was filled with thoughtful details and custom touches throughout. From the carefully selected finishes and trim work to the intentional layout decisions, every aspect of the home was designed to maximize space, natural light, and everyday functionality. The result is a home that not only looks beautiful but also lives exceptionally well for years to come. It was a pleasure featuring this home in the Parade of Homes and welcoming so many visitors through its doors. We always enjoy the opportunity to showcase our craftsmanship, creativity, and attention to detail while sharing the quality that Buffum Homes brings to every project throughout West Michigan. As you browse through the photos below, we hope you’ll find inspiration for your own future home and discover ideas that fit your lifestyle and vision. Whether it is a favorite finish, layout feature, built-in detail, or design element, this home is a great example of how personalized a Buffum Home can be. When you’re ready to begin your custom home journey, we’d love to help create a customized version of the Sydney floor plan tailored specifically to your family’s needs, style, and goals. We can’t wait to help bring your dream home to life.

The kitchen was designed two years ago and was then erased and redesigned when the world became a different place a year later. As everyone attempted to flatten the curve, our goal in this regard was to create a kitchen that looked forward to a sharp curve down and of a happier time To that promise for happier times, the redesign, a goal was to make the kitchen brighter and more optimistic. This was done by using simple, primary shapes and circular pendants and emphasizing them in contrast, adding a playful countenance. The selection of a dynamic grain of figured walnut also contributes as this once-living material and its sinuous grain adds motion, rhythm, and scale. Proud of their 1970s home, one challenge of the design was to balance a 1970's feel and stay current. However, many ‘70s references looked and felt outdated. The first step was a changed mindset. Just like the return of the ‘40s bath and the retro movement a few years ago, every era returns in some way. Chronologically, the '70s will soon be here. Our design looked to era-specific furniture and materials of the decade. Figured walnut was so pervasive in the era: this motif was used on car exteriors such as the 1970 Town and Country Station Wagon, which debuted the same year the existing home was built. We also looked at furniture specific to the decade. The console stereo is referenced not only by high legs on the island but also by the knurled metal cabinet knobs reminiscent of often-used stereo dials. Knurled metalwork is also used on the kitchen faucet. The design references the second piece of '70s furniture in our modern TV tray, which is angled to face the television in the family room. Its round pencil and mug holder cutouts follow the design of walnut consoles and dashboard of the station wagon and other elements of the time.

As part of Valor Roofing’s Raise the Roof program, US Army Veteran, SGT George Welch received a free roof on his home in Edgewater, MD. SGT Welch is 73 years old and was an Army Military Policeman (31B), as well as a Gunner on a Helicopter Gunship. His platoon was involved in the Battle of Saigon in which they were trapped in an alleyway. Unfortunately, a few of his platoon members did not survive. “When we consider a Veteran for the Raise the Roof Program, it is important to not only establish a need, but to ensure we recognize the Veteran for their dedication to our country,” said Al Kincaid, Founder of Raise the Roof.“ SGT Welch exemplifies the bravery and heroism we have come to expect from our servicemen and women. Furthermore, SGT Welch deserves a roof that is sturdy and safe. His current home desperately needs something that we can provide. It is our duty as grateful Americans to do our part.” Living in Edgewater, Maryland for the last 41 years has been a blessing for SGT Welch, but more importantly, for the community that surrounds him. SGT Welch is a cancer survivor, but that doesn’t limit his ability to walk his beloved dogs and get his daily exercise in. This is wonderful news for the neighboring K-9’s, as they all have grown accustom to sneaking a dog treat from his pockets — purposefully — full of delicious snacks. “SGT Welch was flabbergasted when we arrived. Most Veterans are very humble and do not believe they deserve recognition for their service,” said Will Fisher, Program and Brand Manager at Valor, “After we saw his reaction, we took a moment to show respect. The last thing we wanted was to overwhelm him even more. That is just the type of guy he is; humble and prideful.” The Raise the Roof program was created by Valor Roofing to give back to service disabled veterans in need, especially Veterans of Foreign Wars such as WW2, Korean War and Vietnam War. Veteran recipients are nominated by their community through Valor Roofing’s radio partners 93.1 WPOC, 98.7 WMZQ, 105.7 The Fan, and 100.7 The Bay. With hundreds of applications to choose from, Valor Roofing selects four veterans a year, one per quarter, to receive a new roof. In less than three years, the program has donated 11 roofs, a value of $132,000. Through their partnership with Operation Second Chance and Flags of Valor (FOV), each recipient also receives a custom wooden flag, hand-built by veterans.